Fresh meat and seafood brand Zappfresh has announced plans to establish a major freshwater aquaculture project in Assam, marking another significant step in its efforts to strengthen seafood sourcing and build a more integrated supply chain.
The initiative is expected to enhance the company’s access to quality fish while supporting local farmers and promoting sustainable aquaculture practices in the region.
The project will be developed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between DSM Fresh Foods Limited, which operates the Zappfresh brand, and Gohpur Fish Farmer Producer Company Limited. Located in Gohpur in Assam’s Biswanath district, the project is planned across approximately 100 acres and is expected to produce around 300 tonnes of freshwater fish annually using scientific fish-farming techniques.
Designed as a comprehensive “seed-to-fork” aquaculture ecosystem, the initiative will cover the entire value chain, including fish seed procurement, feed management, water-quality monitoring, harvesting, processing, cold-chain infrastructure, and distribution. The integrated approach is intended to improve traceability, quality control, and supply-chain efficiency while ensuring a reliable flow of seafood products to consumers.
For Zappfresh, the project forms part of a broader backward-integration strategy aimed at reducing dependence on open-market procurement. By sourcing fish directly through structured farming partnerships, the company expects to improve supply consistency, optimize procurement costs, and strengthen operational efficiency across its seafood business.
The Assam venture is the company’s second major aquaculture collaboration, following an earlier partnership in the sector. It reflects Zappfresh’s growing focus on seafood as a key growth category within its portfolio and aligns with its long-term vision of building a transparent and scalable farm-to-consumer food ecosystem.
Beyond commercial benefits, the project is expected to create employment opportunities in farming, processing, logistics, and distribution. Local communities, including women’s self-help groups, are expected to participate in various activities associated with the venture, helping generate additional livelihood opportunities in the region.
Assam’s strong fish consumption culture and growing aquaculture potential make it an attractive location for such investments. By combining modern farming practices with local expertise, the project aims to contribute to the development of the state’s fisheries sector while supporting the increasing demand for traceable, high-quality seafood products in India.